Pennsylvania's iron-fisted control over
wine and liquor sales
could soon be loosening following the passage of sweeping liquor reforms on Thursday.

The Pennsylvania
Senate voted 29 to 21
in support of a bill that would expand wine sales at grocery stores and restaurants but keep the existing state liquor stores. The bill, which now heads to the Pa. House of Representatives for final passage, does not call for the full privatization of the state's liquor distribution system.

The reason, he said, is because the liquor modernization bill is supported by
Gov. Tom Wolf.

Modernizing the state system has been part of the budget framework that is currently being discussed by the governor and the four legislative caucuses. It's time, Costa said, to pass the modernization bill and bring the budget conversation to a close.

"The whole budget package has been negotiated, at this point, by four of the five parties," Costa said. "That would be the reason why I stand in support of this particular piece of legislation today."

"We are looking for consensus," Browne said following Thursday's committee meeting. "And consensus dictates that this is the product that gets the support of the General Assembly and the governor."

Browne said he is hoping for the best when the bill heads to the House for its concurrence. The original bill, which was introduced by House Speaker Mike Turzai, called for a complete dismantling of the system.

Here's some of the components of the proposal that will have the greatest impact on Pennsylvania's wine and liquor consumers:

No restrictions on hours, state-mandated holidays or
Sunday operation
of state liquor stores

Opening up loyalty programs and coupons at state stores

Flexible pricing to allow state stores to offer special discounts and sales

Restaurants and hotels with licenses can sell up to four bottles of wine for take-out.

Grocery stores that currently sell beer, such as Wegman's, may also sell up to four bottles of wine.

Casinos can sell beer, liquor and wine 24/7. Liquor can be consumed off the gaming floor.

Casinos can provide beer, liquor and wine free of charge at invitation-only events